Tampa Bay Lightning 2014-15 Season Preview

Sep 24, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning forward Jonathan Drouin (27) handles the puck against the Nashville Predators during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. The Predators beat the Lightning 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

3 BIG QUESTIONS

 1.  Drouin for Calder? – The Bolts’ top pick from the 2013 draft has an extra year of seasoning under his belt and is one of the leading candidates for rookie of the year.  He broke a finger in traning camp, but could return as soon as opening weekend.  If he gets to play on Stamkos’ wing, he is pretty much a lock for top freshman.

2. Stamkos 100%? – Stamkos missed part of training camp still not at 100% from his broken leg.  If he is at 100%, or even close, the Lightning will be in the hunt to repeat their trip to the postseason.

3.  Shored up “D”?  – Garrison and Stralman are an upgrade on what the Lightning iced last season, and the maturation of Victor Hedman gives them a Norris candidate.  The addition of backup Evgeni Nabokov insulates Bishop.